Social Media Trends That Are Damaging Teeth

As social media continues to influence our daily lives, it's no surprise that viral dental trends have found their way into our feeds. In fact, many people report turning to social media for health advice, including tips on dental care and DIY orthodontic procedures. While some of these viral sensations may seem harmless or even beneficial, many can have serious consequences. 

Since children and teenagers are particularly vulnerable to social media trends that could damage teeth, parents must be aware of these potentially damaging fads and have open conversations about the importance of professional orthodontic care. 

Read on to learn about social media trends that are wreaking havoc on teeth and discover where to find the best orthodontist in Sheboygan to keep your child’s teeth safe and healthy.

Five Popular Social Media Trends That Can Actually Damage Teeth 

From DIY orthodontic treatments to questionable products, the following trends have gained traction online and raised serious concerns among orthodontists:

1. DIY Braces

Some teens and young adults are turning to homemade braces to straighten their teeth while saving money and time. These DIY teeth straightening techniques include materials like rubber bands, paper clips, dental floss, and even kits that influencers market as cheap alternatives for closing gaps between teeth and straightening misaligned teeth. 

In addition to being ineffective, DIY braces can cause serious harm to teeth and gums, including tooth loss, gum damage, infections, and even changes in facial structure. Without proper medical knowledge and expertise, it's impossible to move teeth safely or correct bite issues. Additionally, using non-sterile materials can introduce harmful bacteria into your mouth. Orthodontists strongly advise against DIY braces, as the risks far outweigh any perceived benefits.

2. Tooth Filing 

This dangerous practice involves individuals attempting to modify their tooth shape or alignment without professional guidance. While it may seem like a quick and easy fix for cosmetic dental issues, the reality is far more concerning. Teeth filing at home can cause irreversible damage to the tooth enamel and cause uneven teeth, bite problems, and even tooth loss in severe cases. Ultimately, tooth filing has a high risk of long-term dental complications that can be costly and painful to address.

3. Attaching Accessories to the Teeth 

Attaching accessories to teeth, such as dental piercings or gems, is a cosmetic trend that involves either a semi-permanent adhesive that can erode enamel or drilling small holes in the tooth to insert a stud. While these modifications may seem stylish, they come with significant risks. 

These procedures can damage tooth enamel and raise the risk of tooth decay, sensitivity, and even tooth loss. They also create new spaces for bacteria to grow, increasing the risk of tooth infections and gum disease. Furthermore, teeth accessories can interfere with proper oral hygiene by making it difficult to brush and floss effectively. In some cases, they may chip or break nearby teeth or become loose and pose a choking hazard. 

4. Mewing

Mewing is a controversial technique that claims to reshape the face and improve facial aesthetics by changing tongue posture. Proponents believe that keeping the tongue pressed against the roof of the mouth can alter jaw and facial bone structure over time. People often try mewing to achieve a more defined jawline, straighter teeth, or better breathing. However, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims, and mewing can potentially lead to jaw pain, tooth misalignment, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. 

Facial bone structure is primarily determined by genetics and natural growth patterns, not tongue positioning. Attempting to change facial structure through mewing, especially after adolescence, is unlikely to produce significant results and may cause more harm than good. 

5. Charcoal Toothpaste and Other DIY Teeth Whitening Hacks

At-home whitening techniques often use everyday household items like baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, or acidic substances such as lemon juice or apple cider vinegar instead of products specifically designed for teeth whitening. While these methods may seem harmless and cost-effective, they can actually pose significant risks to oral health due to their ability to wear down or erode tooth enamel over time. This damage to the enamel can lead to tooth sensitivity, dry mouth, and even permanent changes to the tooth color. 

Charcoal toothpaste is another popular social media trend, touted as a natural and effective way to whiten teeth. However, dental professionals are sounding the alarm about the safety and effectiveness of charcoal-based dental products because of the abrasive nature of activated charcoal. While it may initially appear to whiten teeth by scrubbing away surface stains, regular use can actually damage the protective outer layer of teeth. 

Where to Find the Best Orthodontist in Manitowoc and Sheboygan

While the internet is a valuable resource, it's important to approach trends that can affect the health of your teeth and their alignment cautiously. Scheduling an appointment with a board-certified orthodontist will ensure that your concerns are addressed safely and effectively. 

At Just Orthodontics, both you and your child can get board-certified orthodontic treatment backed by the knowledge and expertise of four generations of orthodontists. Our caring and energetic team is dedicated to providing orthodontic care in a fun and comfortable environment with the most advanced technology available.